Image Processing

Abstract

Computer graphics are stored and processed either as vector or raster data. Most data types that were encountered in the previous chapter were vector data, i.e., points, lines and polygons. Drainage networks, the outline of geologic units, sampling locations and topographic contours are examples of vector data. In Chapter 7, coastlines are stored in the vector format while bathymetric and topographic data are saved in the raster format. Vector and raster data are often combined in one data set, for instance, the course of a river is displayed on a satellite image. Raster data are often converted to vector data by digitizing points, lines or polygons. On the other hand, vector data are sometimes transformed to raster data.